Hilton commits to saving the world – one hotel at a time

Focusing on sustainability, Hilton Hotels announced its commitment to cut its environmental footprint in half and double its social impact investment by 2030.

Earth Day has already passed, but it seems that Hilton isn’t going to stop with its efforts in saving the world.

In a new consumer research, it was confirmed that environmental and social efforts are central to hotel guest booking decisions. The data is according to a survey of 72,000 Hilton guests which was conducted this month. They were asked if they research a hotel’s efforts, and 33% of them said they actively seek this info before booking, especially those younger than 25 years old.

With this new data, Hilton Hotels plans to commit to being the first major hotel chain to use science-based strategies to help preserve our natural resources. From reducing water usage and carbon emission to sending zero soap to landfills, and actively pursuing volunteer programmes.

The announcement is part of Hilton’s Travel with Purpose – a corporate responsibility strategy to support the United Nation’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

“For nearly 100 years, Hilton has been driven by our mission to have a positive impact on the communities surrounding our hotels,” said Christopher Nassetta, president and CEO, Hilton, and Chairman, World Travel & Tourism Council. “In this Golden Age of Travel, we are taking a leadership role to ensure that the destinations where travellers work, relax, learn and explore, are vibrant and resilient for generations of adventurers yet to come.”

Although the announcement is fairly new, it’s worthy to note that Hilton Hotels has been making efforts in these concerns since 2008. It has been reducing carbon emissions and waste by 30%, and energy and water consumption by 20%. It’s really a win-win situation for the earth and Hilton, as the company has saved more than US$1 billion through these initiatives.

“The World Tourism Organization commends Hilton’s focus on sustainability, which is in line with our overall commitment as the UN’s agency that is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism for development worldwide,” said Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

“Hilton has been our partner in this endeavour, raising awareness among customers with examples of best practices for the hospitality industry.”